WAVE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT BY RADAR

Weight heights were measured by the use of a slightly modified NRL X-band nanosecond-pulse test radar. This equipment, mounted above the surface and looking down, provided a precision that is equivalent to that obtained from a through-the-surface wave sensor. Stable platforms 20 to 60 feet above the surface gave excellent results, and a brief test made with a helicopter flying 100 feet up at 60 to 100 knots forward speed indicated possibilities for this platform. Targets with a periodic change in range, such as a swinging sphere, were studied. The combination of nanosecond radar techniques and fixed platforms for looking vertically at the rough water surface permits wave heights to be measured in the open ocean where through-the-surface sensors are not practical. (Author)

• Corporate Authors:

  Naval Research Laboratory

  Stennis Space Center, MS  United States  39529-5004
• Authors:
  • Myers, G F
• Publication Date: 1971-2-1

Media Info

• Pagination: 14 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Ocean waves; Radar devices; Wavelength
• Old TRIS Terms: Wave length measurement
• Subject Areas: Design; Marine Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00016694
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: NRL-7231 Intrm Rpt
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 27 1971 12:00AM